turning front rail pins....always a no-no?

[JIMRPT@aol.com]

In a message dated 17/12/03 10:27:12 AM, Alpha88x@aol.com writes:

<< Yes, turning front rail pins is a viable option. It buys time for a 
key re-bushing job. >>

Julia...not disagreeing with you here but a key rebushing job itself is just 
buying time before the next rebushing is it not? :-)

<<  However, when you have to be turning too many pins too 
far, it may be obvious that a re-bushing job is what is really needed >>

 Yep I agree....... personally I operate on the 20 degree rule of 
thumb......that being if I have to turn the pin more than 20 degrees either way. I am a 
little more critical with nice pianos and a little less critical with the 
run-of-the-mill types...that being said the guiding principle for me is always the 
use of the instrument and the abilities of the person(s) playing it as well as 
their expectations.

 When Erard developed these thingees he did so with the thought in mind of 
using their elliptical (or ovoid if you prefer) shape to extend the life of key 
bushings and insofar as practical did not consider such as a temporary fix. 
(now don't argue with me y'all, read the patent. :)

 While we can use pin turning as a crutch, when overdone, it should not 
become such. As for the "too much" friction crowd......if turning the pins does 
create too much friction in the bushing than either you have turned the pins too 
far or turning the pins is just not going to be a viable option for that 
particular instrument.

 But then.......... what do I know?? 
Merry Christmas everbody..don't get so tied up in final business rush 
thingees that you don't take time to smell the mistletoe and spend time with family 
and friends!!
Jim Bryant (FL)